Emergency Contraception and Its Effects on Your Cycle

Emergency contraceptive pill contraception

Hello Doctor: I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill "Yueji" starting on the fifth day of my menstrual cycle each month.
I originally planned to skip a month.
My period started on May 3 and ended on May 7.
I had sexual intercourse on May 8 and took emergency contraception on May 9.
On May 13, I experienced a small amount of brown spotting, and on May 14, I had heavy bleeding (similar in volume and color to my regular period).
Does this count as my period? If so, can I start taking the "Yueji" oral contraceptive pill to regulate my cycle on May 18 (or should it be May 17)? Thank you for your response.

Vi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/15

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, emergency contraceptive pills can sometimes cause menstrual irregularities.
It is best to use preventive measures beforehand.
You can start taking the oral contraceptive "Yueji" on May 18.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/05/15

More Info

Emergency contraception (EC) is a method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure. Understanding how it interacts with your menstrual cycle is crucial for effective use and managing expectations regarding your menstrual health.

In your case, you mentioned that you have been taking a regular oral contraceptive (the "悦己" pill) starting from the fifth day of your menstrual cycle. After having unprotected intercourse on May 8, you took emergency contraception on May 9. Following this, you experienced some unusual bleeding, which can be a common side effect of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs).

Effects of Emergency Contraception on Your Cycle
1. Bleeding Patterns: The bleeding you experienced on May 13 and 14 could be a side effect of the emergency contraception. ECPs can cause changes in your menstrual cycle, including spotting or breakthrough bleeding. This bleeding can sometimes be mistaken for a period, but it may not necessarily indicate the start of a new cycle.

2. Timing of Your Next Dose: Since you experienced significant bleeding that resembled your normal menstrual flow, it is reasonable to consider that your body may be responding to the emergency contraception. However, it is essential to differentiate whether this bleeding is indeed your period or just a side effect of the ECP.

3. Resuming Regular Birth Control: You can typically resume your regular contraceptive method after experiencing a withdrawal bleed or your next period. In your case, if the bleeding on May 14 was similar to your regular menstrual flow, you could start taking your regular birth control pill again on May 18. However, if you are unsure whether the bleeding was a true menstrual period, it may be prudent to wait until you have a clearer understanding of your cycle.

Recommendations
- Monitor Your Cycle: Keep track of your bleeding patterns over the next few weeks. If you notice significant changes or if your next period is delayed, consider taking a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.

- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you have any concerns about the bleeding or how to proceed with your contraceptive regimen, it is always best to consult your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current situation.

- Understanding Side Effects: Be aware that ECPs can cause side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and changes in your menstrual cycle. These effects are typically temporary, but if they persist or worsen, seek medical advice.

Conclusion
In summary, the bleeding you experienced after taking emergency contraception may be a side effect rather than a new menstrual cycle. You can likely resume your regular contraceptive pill after the bleeding, but it is essential to monitor your cycle and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance. Understanding how emergency contraception affects your body can help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.

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